Endometriosis

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It may affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, bladder, or bowel.

Endometriosis can cause inflammation, scar tissue, adhesions, and ovarian cysts called endometriomas. The amount of endometriosis present does not always match the severity of symptoms.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis?

Symptoms may include:

• Severe menstrual cramps
• Chronic or recurring pelvic pain
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Painful bowel movements or urination during your period
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Abdominal bloating or digestive symptoms
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

Pain that interferes with work, school, sleep, relationships, or daily activities should be evaluated.

How is endometriosis diagnosed?

Your provider reviews your symptoms, menstrual history, previous treatments, and pregnancy goals.

Evaluation may include:

• A pelvic examination
• Pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound
• Additional imaging when appropriate
• Laparoscopy in selected cases

A normal ultrasound does not rule out endometriosis. Treatment may often begin based on your symptoms and examination without requiring surgery to confirm the diagnosis.

How is endometriosis treated?

Treatment depends on your symptoms, medical history, and pregnancy goals. Options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Hormonal birth control
• Progestin therapy
• A hormonal intrauterine device
• Other hormone-suppressing medications
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Fertility evaluation or specialist care

Medication may control symptoms but does not permanently eliminate endometriosis.

When is surgery considered?

Laparoscopic surgery may be considered when:

• Pain is severe or has not improved with medication
• An ovarian endometrioma is present
• Deep endometriosis is suspected
• Fertility may be affected
• The diagnosis remains uncertain

During surgery, your physician may remove endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and scar tissue when appropriate. Symptoms can recur, so continued treatment may sometimes be recommended afterward.

Schedule an endometriosis evaluation

Severe period pain and persistent pelvic symptoms should not be ignored.

Call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology or request an appointment online to schedule an endometriosis evaluation.